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The Christmas tree debate: real or artificial?

Whether you're rooting for real, or opting for artificial, here's how to make sure yours is a green Christmas this year

There's nothing like the site of dry, wilted Christmas trees lined up outside houses in January to contribute to the post-Christmas guilt.

While evidence clearly shows that cutting down trees kills natural resources and gives nothing back, it can also be said that the Christmas tree farming industry helps offset damaging Carbon Dioxide omissions.

Opting for artificial means your tree can be re-used year after year which may seem more environmentally sound, but as most 'fake' trees contain non-biodegradable PVC, it's debatable whether they really are the greenest choice.

So if making your Christmas green is important to you - which one do you choose? The facts are a little bewildering. If you're facing tree trauma this year, don't fret, we've teamed up with Recycle Now to clear up the facts.

Rooting for real

There's nothing quite like a real Christmas tree, the look, the smell of pine, and even for some, the ritualistic sweeping up of needles.

Real trees can easily be recycled and as they grow they absorb carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas. Real Christmas trees do not need rich soils, and so can be grown on hillsides and marginal land, although there may still be issues around biodiversity and pesticides.

If you follow the trend and buy a tree that has been grown in a container or potted with its roots intact, plant it in your garden after Christmas. Alternatively, transfer it into a bigger pot so the roots have room to grow and use it again next year.

If you don't know where to buy a rooted tree, contact The British Christmas Tree Growers Association (BCTGA). There are 350 members spread throughout the UK so there's sure to be one near you. They will also provide details on how to care for your tree.

The Soil Association lists Christmas tree producers that carry its organic certification. Alternatively look for tree producers who produce Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified trees.

Faking it

Artificial trees can be used year after year. The more uses you can make of an artificial tree, the lower its impact per use. With an average life span of five or six years, care can extend its life further.

There is an environmental cost in both the manufacture and disposal of artificial trees. The majority are made out of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), an oil derivative. When they are no longer required, artificial trees usually end up in landfill where they are not bio-degradable.

Keeping it green

• Extend its life by looking after it properly. Store it safely, clean it regularly and re-use it year by year as much as you can. Opting for a good quality Christmas tree means it will tend to last longer. The average life of an artificial tree is five to six years
• Don't forget that artificial trees can be recycled too. When you are ready to dispose of your tree, make sure you recycle it or give it to a local charity shop or a local group.

Ditching the tree altogether? Here are some fun alternatives:

Decorate a tree in the garden

A few fairy lights can make your garden look magical on a winter's night. And there's no need to worry about sweeping up pine needles

Dedicate a tree

Sponsor a tree in a wood of your choice. This could also make a nice eco gift for someone else. Visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk for more details

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